Threat Against Rep. Akin Being Investigated

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ST. LOUIS, MO (KTVI) - A spokesperson for Congressman Todd Akin released details on Thursday about threats made against Akin, his family and staff. Steve Taylor released information that the threats include death and rape.

Akin made national headlines for his comments on the Jaco Report concerning rape and abortion.

He won an August republican primary and is challenging democratic Sen. Claire McCaskill for her seat.

U.S. Capitol Police confirm they are looking into the threats and that the FBI is part of the investigation.

"It's hard for me to comment on the credibility of a threat," said Perry Akin, campaign manager and 2nd oldest son of Todd Akin. "We treat them seriously and capitol police have always done a really good job."

We asked Perry Akin whether his dad would drop out if his polls numbers were so low a victory seemed impossible.

"It's hard to say but right now we are full speed ahead and there's absolutely no talk about turning around."

The McCaskill camp has been relatively quiet in recent days. Lindenwood's Joe Cernik says that's to be expected.

"She's doing exactly what she should be doing," said Cernik. He said McCaskill's challenge is to be ready for a different candidate to take Akin's place if he drops off the ballot.

Todd Akin's Communication director Steve Taylor released the following statement:

"Capitol police are working with an outside law enforcement agency regarding threatening contact with our official office. The office of Congressman Akin has received threats of rape of his official staff, family and the Congressman himself along with suggestions that individuals should die.”

Akin has been in the national spotlight this week. His comments on FOX 2′s Jaco Report last Sunday have had some calling for him to bow out of the race for US Senate. During the program he was asked if rape could ever be a reason to have an abortion. He said, “It seems to be, first of all, from what I understand from doctors, it’s really rare. If it’s a legitimate rape, the female body has ways to try to shut the whole thing down.”